Expressions of Care
“The connections we make in the course of a life — maybe that's what heaven is.” – Fred Rogers
As I have more time after the full left knee replacement surgery, I’ve watched a few biography videos on YouTube. Since I ice for 20 minute sessions, I can usually view one or two good videos during this time.
I came across a video of Fred Rogers. For those of you who do not know him, he was the host of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood for more than 30 years, starting in 1968. The 30-minute educational program was aimed at pre-school age kids, and Rogers’ main goal was to let his young viewers know that they are special people and unique in their own beautiful way.
As Mr. Rogers would say at the end of each show …
"You've made this day a special day, by just your being you. There's no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are."
Expressions of Care
One notable item that stood out to me about Rogers was his commitment to his Christian values. He saw people, especially kids, as full of purpose and felt they should be treated with dignity.
Here are some of the ways Mr. Rogers demonstrated expressions of care …
Real strength has to do with helping others.
Being kind means focusing on the needs of others.
It’s helpful to have people we love close to us when going through difficult times.
A life free of pain is not normal, as these struggles give one the impetus to learn and grow.
Difficult Times – Long Journey
Recently, I had a post-op visit with the surgeon to evaluate my left knee. As he peeled off the surgical bandage that covered the incision, he said …
“Awesome! This is looking great! You are on your way to recovery, Brother!”
Upon hearing these words, I was encouraged. In fact, I was ready to jump on my Peloton bike to do a 45-minute intense workout, but … he followed up …
“I do want to tell you that we are just 30 seconds into the game. Although things are looking good, this is a long journey.”
What!?
How did I go from doing super well to being just 30 seconds into a game?
What kind of game is this?
There is no doubt that optimism got the best of me. I know this rehab process will take up to 12 months, but I want to believe that my case will be very special, and all the healing will get done in a quarter of that time.
It won’t happen!
Back to the Neighborhood
Mr. Rogers reminded me that life will have hardships, and I need to do my part to get through them.
In this case, I need to rely on my family to help with things I cannot do. Also, I need to listen to the medical professionals, as they have my best interest in mind as well.
I am ready to be self-sufficient again, and the time will come.
For now, though, it’s a little fun to be spoiled here and there. Heck … if it continues too long, I just might get used to it. Ha!
By the way, I wanted to thank so many of you who responded by wishing me a speedy recovery. Your act of kindness made a big difference and has been helping me during this long recovery process.
See you next week, my friends!
Inspiring Quotes
"Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero. " – Fred Rogers
"Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are gives us all the best opportunity for growing into the healthiest of people." – Fred Rogers
Homework Inquiry
During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you show strength by helping others?
I use this opportunity to share with you a unique story and a couple inspiring quotes. Oh ... as a professor at heart, you guessed it, I have a homework inquiry for you. This is a powerful question that might just trigger you to take action on something that really matters in your life. If you feel the Catalyst Newsletter brings benefit to you.